Helen Coley Hughes

Helen was born on July 19, 1932 in Alexandria, Louisiana to the late Henry Sauls Coley and Grace Sanderlin Coley.

Helen graduated from Elizabeth City High School where she played the French horn in the orchestra and marching band. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English. Helen played the French horn in Greensboro Symphony Orchestra. Later, Helen earned a Master of Arts in English Literature from Old Dominion University.

Helen married Julian Wallace Hughes. From this union, comes their only child Deborah Wren Costigan.

Helen went on teach secondary school English in Weeksville, North Carolina and at Norview High School in Norfolk, Virginia for 34 years where she was the sponsor of the Junior Class and Honor Society. She also performed in faculty drama. Helen was a professional artist in oils and acrylics. She participated in various shows throughout her career. One in particular is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk Show for 10 years where she won several ribbons.

Helen was on the Board of Directors of the Arts Foundation on The Hill in Yorktown, VA and later, the Gallery on the York. She was a volunteer manager there for six years and displayed paintings. Helen designed and painted canvases for Needlepoint. She also made alter kneelers of the First Lutheran Church of Norfolk, Virginia where she was a member.

Helen leaves to cherish special memories her daughter Deborah Wren Costigan; her grandchildren, Erin and Elizabeth Costigan; and her great grandchild Bryana.

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